Atwater Village News - blog

GLENFELIZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: “READING GARDEN PLANTING DAY”

2012-01-26T19:57:00.000-08:00

Save the Date! Saturday, February 4th (9am to 2pm) is the Reading Garden Planting Day at Glenfeliz Elementary School (3955 Glenfeliz Blvd).

EnrichLA will be spearheading this event. It will be a great community day with lunch and drinks provided. Click here to volunteer.

TURNING A NEW PAGE AT THE SCHOOL LIBRARY FOR ATWATER AVENUE ELEMENTARY

2012-01-26T19:29:00.000-08:00

It took five months and fierce community fundraising, but the students at Atwater Avenue Elementary finally got their library back.

There was much rejoicing in the school grounds at Atwater Avenue Elementary this week as their School Library finally re-opened on Monday. The new librarian, Brittany Grate, started on Monday and will be at the school three days per week.

The official Grand Re-Opening Brunch to celebrate with the community and media will be held at the School Library on Friday February 17 at 11am. All are welcome. Refreshments will be hosted by EnrichLA who spearheaded the renovation of Atwater Elementary's new Edible Garden. This Grand Re Opening Brunch will follow the school's annual Open House from 8.30am-10.30am.

For further information contact Shelli-Anne Couch, President Friends of Atwater Elementary at shelliannecouch@gmail.com

ATWATER VILLAGE MADE WHOLE IN NEW CITY COUNCIL REDISTRICTING PROPOSAL

2012-01-25T23:09:00.000-08:00

A new City Council redistricting proposal incorporates all of Atwater Village within one council district, Council District 13 (CD13/Eric Garcetti).

The redistricting proposal integrates Atwater's industrial area north of Goodwin and the equestrian district, both currently in Council District 4, into Council District 13. Atwater's residential areas and three main commercial corridors (Fletcher Dr and Los Feliz & Glendale Blvd's) will remain in Council District 13.

Atwater’s chamber of commerce, resident’s association and neighborhood council actively lobbied the Redistricting Commission to have the whole community placed within one council district, preferably in CD13. Civic leaders argued against having the community divided among more then one council district. They cited concerns about the confusion and lack of accountability often created by having one community represented by more then one elected official.

For more information visit the Redistricting Commission website at:

http://redistricting2011.lacity.org/

Or visit the L.A. Times City Council redistricting interactive map at:

http://graphics.latimes.com/la-council-redistricting%C2%A0

JOSH POST ENTERS CD13 RACE

2012-01-06T13:00:00.000-08:00

Josh Post has filed the initial paperwork at the City’s Ethic Commission to run as a candidate for Council District 13 in 2013. Post is an Echo Park resident and a Deputy Attorney General for the California Department of Justice.

ATWATER’S RUEBEN MARTINEZ TAKES THE PLUNGE

2012-01-05T15:28:00.000-08:00

Rueben Martinez has filed the initial paperwork at the City’s Ethic Commission to run as a candidate for Council District 13 in 2013. Martinez is longtime Atwater Village resident and community activist. He currently serves on the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council as South Atwater Representative.

LOS ANGELES CITY COUNCIL REDISTRICTING COMMISSION PUBLIC INPUT HEARING

2011-12-31T19:53:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, January 4, 2012 - 6:30 p.m.

Friendship Auditorium

3201 Riverside Drive

Los Angeles, CA 90027

Public Testimony regarding City Redistricting (Each presenter is allowed no more than two minutes per speaker at the discretion of the hearing Presiding Officer. All written testimony will be accepted, as well as testimony submitted on-line)

For information concerning this Commission, please contact Myriam Lopez at (213) 922-7740 or e-mail myriam.lopez@lacity.org

Los Angeles City Council Redistricting Commission

www.redistricting2011.lacity.org

200 N. Spring Street, Room 275

Los Angeles, CA 90012

Phone: (213) 922-7740

email: redistricting.lacity@lacity.org

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Currently, Atwater Village is divided among three council districts. Atwater’s industrial area north of Goodwin and equestrian district is located in Council District 4; Atwater’s residential areas and three main commercial corridors (Fletcher Dr and Los Feliz & Glendale Blvd’s) are located in Council District 13; and a small slither of industrial property south of the 2 freeway is located in Council District 1.

THE CANDIDATES THUS FAR….

2011-12-22T12:18:00.000-08:00

In 2013 communities within City Council District 13 (CD13), which includes Atwater Village, will get a new representative for City Council. CD13’s current representative, Eric Garcetti, is being termed out and pretenders to replace him have already started to lineup.

Two contenders have already submitted the preliminary paperwork at the City’s Ethic Commission to run as candidates: Mitch O’Farrell (Glassell Park) and Scott Crawford (Silver Lake). Three other hopefuls are also expected to follow suit; these include Joshua Post (Echo Park), Jose Sigala (Echo Park) and Rueben Martinez (Atwater Village).

In addition, State Senator Kevin de Leon (22nd District) is also rumored to be running for CD13. De Leon does not live in CD13 but some sections of his senate district overlap it.

ATWATER’S NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL TAKES INITIAL STEPS FOR A GENERAL BOARD ELECTION IN 2012

2011-12-15T22:28:00.000-08:00

At their December 8^th board meeting the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council (AVNC) voted to form an Election Committee. The committee was tasked to organize and oversee a general board election for 2012.

The current AVNC Board was elected in 2010 for a two year term. The last general board election was marred by low voter and candidate participation. Only 102 voters partook in the 2010 election, significantly less then the approximate 15,000 stakeholders eligible to vote. In addition, candidate participation in that election was the lowest since the AVNC was founded in 2003. With 14 electable positions only 11 candidates participated and in almost every case candidates ran unopposed.

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For more information on the AVNC Election Committee contact Cindy Marie Jenkins: cindy@atwatervillage.org

MITCH O’FARRELL TAKES THE PLUNGE

2011-12-15T21:51:00.000-08:00

Mitch O’Farrell has filed the initial paperwork at the City’s Ethic Commission to run as a candidate for Council District 13 in 2013. O’Farrell currently works as Senior Advisor at Council District 13 and is a Glassell Park resident.

“PULP FICTION” TRAFFIC ACCIDENT AT FLETCHER DR AND ATWATER AVE

2011-12-14T22:13:00.000-08:00

A major traffic accident occurred on Fletcher Drive today that was reminiscent of car crash scene filimed at same location and featured in the 1994 film “Pulp Fiction”. The accident involved three vehicles, one that was violently turned over. And like Bruce Wills one driver involved in the accident ran and abandoned his vehicle.

There were no fatalities.

Where Bruce Willis Runs Into Ving Rhames [Atwater Village Newbie]

“COMMON GRAINS” COMING TO ATWATER VILLAGE

2011-12-09T21:30:00.000-08:00

Common Grains, an innovative cultural initiative dedicated to raising awareness about Japanese grains in the United States, aims to provide the U.S. consumer with a deeper understanding and appreciation for Japanese food and culture. Common Grains is hosting two film screenings and lectures as well as a charity panel discussion and lunch at Atwater Crossing.

Common Grains Film Screenings and Soba Bar at Atwater Crossing

· WHAT: Guests will enjoy screenings of films featuring an unsung player in Japanese cinema—rice. The award-winning films by Japanese filmmakers, Branded to Kill, an entertaining 1960’s gangster movie and A Japanese Village- Furuyashikimura, a classic 1982 in-depth rice documentary, will be accompanied by an informal lecture by Anne McKnight, member of the Department of Asian Languages and Cultures at UCLA. A soba bar featuring artisanal soba and grilled onigiri, and a variety of sake will be offered at the indoor and outdoor screenings.

· WHERE: Atwater Crossing located at 3245 Casitas Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90039

· WHEN: Friday, February 3, 2012 and Saturday, February 4, 2012, soba bar opens at 5 p.m. and the screening and lecture begins at 7:30 p.m. on February 3 and 6 p.m. on February 4

· COST: No cost to attend the screenings, food and drinks will be available for purchase

· RSVP: Please RSVP to commongrains@wagstaffworldwide.com

Common Grains Charity Panel Discussion and Lunch

· WHAT: Common Grains will host a panel discussion featuring expert grain miller and farmer, Glenn Roberts of Anson Mills in South Carolina and Monica Spiller from The Whole Grain Connection, a non-profit organization aiming to enhance the desirability of organic and sustainable grains. Other grain experts will also speak on the panel and a rice exhibition highlighting ancient varieties of grain will be on display. A special three-course prix fixe soba lunch will be available following the lecture highlighting Anson Mills and Japanese grains. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Whole Grain Connection.

· WHERE: Atwater Crossing located at 3245 Casitas Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90039

· WHEN: Sunday, February 5, 2012 from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

· COST: $45 per person for a ticket to the panel discussion and prix fixe lunch; payment is accepted prior to the event via PayPal or at the event with cash or check

· RSVP: Space is limited. Please RSVP to commongrains@wagstaffworldwide.com

WINDSTORM CLEAN-UP UPDATE

2011-12-09T13:11:00.000-08:00

On December 1, 2011, following the historic windstorm that hit the City of Los Angeles, the Bureau of Sanitation (BOS or Bureau) began to deploy additional collection crews to remove palm fronds, tree branches and other fallen debris. Additionally, 311 and Sanitation Call Center operators provided special instructions for callers to place fallen debris next to the green bins for removal on their scheduled collection day.

As part of a comprehensive effort to contain and remove storm-related debris, BOS will continue the Windstorm Clean-Up Operation as follows:

(1) The Bureau will continue to collect storm debris (including palm fronds and other fallen green waste) on scheduled collection days through week ending December 17^th.

(2) 311 and Sanitation Call Center operators will continue to instruct customers to place all windstorm green waste next to their green containers for removal on scheduled collection days

(3) On Saturday, December 10^th, additional crews will target the hardest hit areas of the city for collection of fallen debris.

(4) Mayoral and Council staff are encouraged to report any fallen debris directly to BOS Collection Yard Superintendents via telephone or email.

To contact Council District 13 directly with any locations you wish to report contact:

Angela Motta, Field Deputy
Phone: 323-957-4500

Email: angela.motta@lacity.org

ATWATER VILLAGE TREE LIGHTING UPDATE - 12/1/2011 : 1:38pm

2011-12-01T13:40:00.001-08:00

20 years ago today a small group of Atwater Village residents and business owners met on Glendale Blvd to sing carols and light the “Charlie Brown” redwood tree. Today, we will honor our first tree lighting event by following that tradition. Due to the ongoing high wind advisory and the loss of electrical power at the Wells Fargo Branch the large Tree Lighting Ceremony at the bank parking lot has been canceled. Instead we invite you for some hot chocolate, caroling and informal tree lighting at 5:30pm. Shortly there after, we encourage everyone to celebrate the tree lighting from the comfort of your favorite local restaurant.

ATWATER VILLAGE TREE LIGHTING UPDATE - 12/1/2011 : 10:00AM

2011-12-01T10:03:00.001-08:00

UPDATE: Our “Charlie Brown” tree has survived last night’s wind storm… lights are working and as of right now tonight’s event is still a go. Please check back for updates on tonight’s Tree Lighting event. The AtwaterVillage Chamber and the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council will providing updates as we receive weather updates .

FAMILY AFFAIR: ATWATER VILLAGE TREE LIGHTING

2011-11-26T20:21:00.000-08:00

The Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce and the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council invite you and your family to the 20th Annual Tree Lighting event in the Heart of Atwater Village December 1, 2011 6pm. Come celebrate the spirit with tradition.

Los Angeles, CA - The 20th Annual Tree Lighting holiday event will take place on Glendale Boulevard in Atwater Village. In the middle of the bustling business corridor a 50 year-old California Redwood Tree towers 80 feet in the air and is adorned yearly with strings of holiday light and ornaments, serving as a beacon of community pride. Attendees will gather Thursday December 1, 2011 at 6pm in the Wells Fargo Bank parking lot (3250 Glendale Boulevard, 90039) to view and experience the time honored community tradition. Santa Claus will arrive via LAFD fire engine and initiate the lighting of the tree. There will also be performances by local schools and presentations by special dignitaries.

The tradition was initiated by the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce in 1991, but has expanded with the active involvement of the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council as well as community groups, businesses, religious institutions, individual volunteers and the City of Los Angeles.

Please join the AVCC, AVNC, residents and business community in this grand celebration of the Winter Holidays Thursday December 1, 2011 6pm. The event is free and open to the public.

Click here to download event flier (pdf file)

Click here to download sponsor directory (pdf file)

20th Annual Atwater Village Tree Lighting!

2011-11-24T12:41:00.000-08:00

Click here for more information

“SOUTHLAND” RETURNS TO ATWATER VILLAGE

2011-11-24T12:06:00.001-08:00

The television show “Southland” will be filming in Atwater Village on November 28^th, from 7am to 10pm. Filming will happen in the Los Angeles River by the Fletcher Drive Bridge. There will be “no parking” restrictions on Fletcher Dr and Larga Ave during filming.

ATWATER’S HOMELESS “VILLAGE” VACATED

2011-11-16T23:44:00.000-08:00

City agencies have vacated the large homeless encampment under the Hyperion Bridge, next to the I5-freeway northbound exit. What remains of the encampment is expected to be cleared by next week.

Atwater Village Fall Festival: Trick-or-Treat on the BOOlevard!

2011-10-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

REMINDER – ATWATER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL READING GARDEN WORKING BEE AT THIS SUNDAY 9AM-1PM

2011-10-21T21:48:00.000-07:00

Atwater Elementary School

Reading Garden Working Bee

Sunday, October 23^rd, 2011 – 9AM to 1PM

3271 Silver Lake Boulevard

Los Angeles, CA 90039

Join Friends of Atwater Elementary (FOA) this Sunday at the school from 9am-1pm to swing shovels to finish building the School Reading Garden. Please bring a sunhat and a sense of humor! FOA provide refreshments (coffee and pastries at 9am, then lunch at 1pm) in our air-conditioned Cub Hub (parents center). Bring the kids, bring the grandparents! Everyone can help build and plant. No job is too small or too big! Enclosed is the official invitation (we've partnered with EnrichLA, a nonprofit volunteer group who put edible gardens into public schools) and below is the scope of work:

Build and finish four wooden picnic tables with umbrella base on 2.
Build and place one large our garden/herb garden bed 8 by 8.
Build and place three veggie beds, four by eight.
Fill beds with 50/50 soil and compost
Tap into existing system to water these beds.
Create and place small signs for beds (herb lists etc)
Build and attach to wall (chalk board)
Plant new natives to fill garden.
Build and place two planters for two new fruit trees.
Build and place large potting table.
Add pavers

“ATWATER VILLAGE” STILL AVAILABLE AT THESE LOCATIONS

2011-10-19T22:03:00.000-07:00

Get your own copy today! Books will be available with the following Atwater Village merchants:

Alias Books East – 3163 Glendale Blvd

Luis Lopez Automotive – 2751 Fletcher Dr

Pot-ted – 3158 Los Feliz Blvd

Speed Co Fax & Pack – 3371 Glendale Blvd

Vince’s Market – 3250 Silver Lake Blvd

The book is also available by mail order for a donation of $21.99 per book plus $5 (up to five books) shipping & handling. Click here to download order form (PDF file).

You can also contact us at 323.913.2999 or favboard@friendsofatwatervillage.org

Call for volunteers: Atwater Elementary School's Garden

2011-10-16T21:01:00.000-07:00

FORMER GLASSELL PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DEBUTS NEW WEBSITE

2011-10-06T13:19:00.000-07:00

The Northeast L.A. Gateway Chamber of Commerce, formerly the Glassell Park Chamber of Commerce, has launched their new website (www.lagatewaychamber.org).

The recently renamed Chamber has also expanded their service area well beyond Glassell Park . They now boldly claim to serve over “10,000 members” in Atwater Village, Cypress Park, Eagle Rock, Echo Park, Elysian Valley, Highland Park, Lincoln Heights, Los Feliz, Washington, Silver Lake, and the City of Glendale. They explain on their website:

“We decided to expand our horizons to include all of our neighboring communities located in the vicinity of the Los Angeles River and the transportation corridors that form a gateway to the greater Northeast Los Angeles area, both in the City of Los Angeles and the City of Glendale. As a result we are now an organization that uniquely combines both a regional and local chamber of commerce. We are bringing together in one place information on more than 10,000 local businesses as well as on our local service and community groups.”

However, despite Glassell Park’s inclusion in the expanded service area some community members have expressed misgivings about the recent changes. Some are concerned that the NELA Gateway Chamber has turned its back on the same community it was originally created to promote. In effect, leaving Glassell Park without a chamber of commerce exclusively dedicated to promoting the businesses and the general economic wellbeing of that community.

CALLING ALL ATWATER VILLAGERS: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR LANDSCAPING GLENDALE BLVD MEDIAN

2011-10-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

The Atwater Village Neighborhood Council continues the median landscaping this Saturday, October 8th starting at 9am. Volunteers are needed and any level of help would be welcomed!

Please bring gardening gloves!

ATWATER’S STAR TREK REUNION: TNG’S GATES MCFADDEN AND DENISE CROSBY REUNITE

2011-10-03T13:54:00.000-07:00

Star Trek: TNG’s Gates McFadden (“Dr. Beverly Crusher”) and Denise Crosby (“Tasha Yar”) reunite on a theater project close to their hearts

LOS ANGELES – October 3, 2011 – It’s been a quarter of a century, but the women of Star Trek: TNG are still going strong. Twenty-five years after they first met on the series, Gates McFadden (“Dr. Beverly Crusher”) and Denise Crosby (“Tasha Yar”) are thrilled to collaborate at Ensemble Studio Theatre/LA, where artistic director McFadden directs company member Crosby in the West Coast premiere of Gregory Moss’s House of Gold.

Inspired by the unsolved murder of six-year old JonBenét Ramsey, House of Gold is a hilarious, yet scathing critique of our culture, revealing dark truths about our values, and, ultimately, about ourselves. It’s a dark, kaleidoscopic comedy about childhood in America.

“What a rare opportunity for two women, artists, to continue to collaborate in such a meaningful way, after 25 years and counting,” says Crosby. “Both Gates and I are mothers, and we see how vulnerable our children are and how predatory our culture is. This is what House of Gold speaks to.”

Agrees McFadden, “Denise and I have similar tastes in theater and the visual arts, so House of Gold gives us an opportunity to work on something together that is close to both of our hearts. We're having a ball!”

Performances of House of Gold take place October 15 thru December 4 at Atwater Village Theatre in Los Angeles. To purchase tickets, call 323-644-1929 or go to www.ensemblestudiotheatrela.org.

Atwater History Presentation & Book Signing

2011-09-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, September 27 · 4:30pm - 7:30pm

Atwater Village Branch Library - Community Room

3379 Glendale Blvd

Los Angeles, California 90039

Join Friends of Atwater Village for a presentation on Atwater Village history based on the “Images of America: Atwater Village” book. The presentation will also include photos not included in the book.

Taste of Italy

2011-09-23T20:50:00.001-07:00

Atwater Village Neighborhood Cleanup and Glendale Blvd Landscaping

2011-09-22T13:58:00.000-07:00

Saturday, October 1 · 8:00am – 12:00pm

Join us of a day of cleaning, empower yourself and improve Atwater Village!

Check in at Luis Lopez Automotive (2751 Fletcher Dr) or at 55 Degree Wine (3111 Glendale Blvd)

Presented to you by the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council, Friends of Atwater Village and the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce. Funding in part by “Clean and Connected Communities” Grant by Council District 13/Council President Eric Garcetti.

ATWATER VILLAGE ARTISTS CREATE “FLETCHER DRIVE” WEB SITCOM

2011-09-22T12:28:00.000-07:00

Local artists Robert Dierx and Paddy Connor have created a web sitcom dubbed “Fletcher Drive”. The show takes place in Atwater Village at an apartment located on Fletcher Drive, at the corner of Atwater Ave.

“Fletcher Drive” is described as:

A web series about three roommates that have a love-hate relationship with reality. The show has absolutely zero limitations on the direction it can go. Literally: the sky is the limit. From zombie apocalypse fortification to full blown shake weight parties, Fletcher Drive will grab your attention and not let go. These episodes were carefully designed to make you re-think your views on love, reality and your definition of pure happiness. Paddy, Julie and Robert, with the help of their friends, will make you realize what you have been waiting for in a web series.

Robert Dierx and Paddy Connor are currently raising funds on indiegogo.com to help pay for the entire first season of shooting and includes location rent, food, costumes, lighting, sound, set decorations and “everything else”.

For more information go to:

http://www.indiegogo.com/FletcherDrive

ATWATER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TO LOSE ITS LIBRARY

2011-09-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

Due to school budget cuts the school library at Atwater Elementary is slated to close on September 23rd unless $15,000 is raised to fund a librarian position. The school’s booster club, Friends of Atwater Elementary (FOA), has started an online fundraising campaign called “Save the Atwater Elementary School Library”.

They hope to raise $15,000, which will allow Atwater Elementary to keep the existing librarian for the school year. FOA is also seeking to raise an additional $30,000 for the Wonder of Reading Program; a matching funds grant that would help fund repairs and renovate the entire library. However, their immediate goal is to keep the library open.

For more information go to:

http://www.indiegogo.com/Atwater?a=228043&i=addr

COURT RULES LA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT VIOLATED ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS IN TURNING VAN DE KAMPS CAMPUS OVER TO CHARTER SCHOOL AND THE MAYOR’S WORKFORCE PROGRAMS

2011-09-08T22:04:00.000-07:00

From: Van de Kamps Coalition

vdkcoalition@gmail.com

vandekamps.org

September 8, 2011

Adverse Ruling Immediately Follows Scathing State Controller’s Office Audit That Reported LACCD Officials Refused To Turn Over Van de Kamps Construction Records

(Los Angeles September 8, 2011) In a hard fought victory for the Van de Kamps Coalition, Superior Court Judge Ann I. Jones issued a tentative ruling today that the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) failed to do necessary environmental studies in its conversion of the $86 million taxpayer bond-funded community college campus at the former Van de Kamps Bakery site to a lease by a 9-12 charter high school. The charter high school, the Alliance for College-Ready Public Schools, is politically connected having former Board of Directors members Eli Broad and Richard Riordan, and another Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, David Cunningham III, on its current Board. Today’s ruling has negative implications for the lease of another part of the campus to unemployment programs funded and championed by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

In sometimes heated argument, Judge Jones admonished attorneys for the LACCD about "Standing up and lying to the Board saying your environmental documents covered it." She further told them regarding handling of environmental requirements, "You didn't do it to the lowest standard." Visibly irritated, Judge Jones characterized some of the LACCD's attorney's arguments as "intellectually insulting".

The Court’s final ruling, likely to remain the same as the tentative ruling today, normally would result in an immediate nullification of the LACCD’s lease with the Alliance Charter School and an order commanding the LACCD to comply with the environmental laws. However, given that the Alliance School has just started another year occupying Northeast community college campus, all of the parties and the judge acknowledged that the Court’s order must be sensitive to avoid a negative impact upon the innocent high school students occupying the community’s college campus. Daniel Wright, the attorney who represented the Van de Kamps Coalition in the successful litigation, has offered to meet and confer with attorneys for the LACCD and the Alliance Charter School to try to resolve the case now that LACCD has lost on the merits. A future hearing on how to bring the District into compliance with the environmental laws may be the subject of a future court hearing.

The Steering Committee of the Van de Kamps Coalition was pleased with the outcome. "This is a vindication of the facts we have spent over two years trying to get the LACCD Board of Trustees to accept,” said Laura Gutierrez. “Now something must be done to relieve the harm done to our community by what, even the Judge, called ‘lies’ of District personnel. The substantial relief we sought in the lawsuit must be granted now that Court found in our favor on the merits. We should never have had to go through this just to get the LACCD to obey basic laws. There is a cancer of corruption growing on our community college and today, the Superior Court made a grave diagnosis that cannot be ignored by the District Attorney, the California Attorney General, and the Civil Grand Jury.”

"We could never have won this without the expertise and tireless dedication of our attorney, Dan Wright,” said Steering Committee member Miki Jackson. “He believed in this cause and has stuck with us through years of thankless effort. We are not done yet. We still have an appeal on our second lawsuit regarding the same issues over the leasing of the historic bakery building to the City for the Mayor's pet unemployment projects, but today’s ruling should shake up the bureaucrats in the Mayor’s Office that they are next for scrutiny.”

Today’s dramatic court hearing comes on the heels of the State Controller's scathing audit of LACCD - an audit triggered by information provided by the Van de Kamps Coalition and its attorney. That audit reported that LACCD officials were withholding Van de Kamps construction records to impede State Controller Chiang’s investigation and that LACCD improperly awarded a contract to an unqualified firm to be the District’s Inspector General.

“We will never give up until we have set this right, and our community has the promised satellite college campus that we all are paying for on our tax bills. Score a couple victories for the little guys," said Ms. Jackson.

For more information, contact:

Miki Jackson

(323) 855-0764

Mikijackson@sbcglobal.net

Web site: Vandekamps.org

Book Signing - "Images of America: Atwater Village" at Potted

2011-09-07T23:03:00.000-07:00

Join Friends of Atwater Village and Potted for evening of history... Atwater Village history.

Thursday, September 15 · 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Potted

3158 Los Feliz Blvd

Los Angeles, California

ATWATER VILLAGE SELECTS FIRST “VILLAGER OF THE YEAR”

2011-08-25T12:52:00.000-07:00

Atwater’s newly minted “Villager of the Year” Award was bestowed upon local resident and community advocate Leonora Gershman-Pitts. An award plaque honoring Leonora was presented to her during the August 23rd Atwater Village Chamber Ice Cream Social / Business Mixer hosted at Pot-ted.

Atwater Village is blessed to have so many hardworking individuals dedicated to preserving and improving almost every aspect of village life. The “Villager of the Year” Award was created by the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce as a way to recognize that outstanding Villager whose extraordinary positive actions preserve the uniqueness of our village and improves those areas that need improvement.

The Chamber’s Board of Directors selected Leonora for “Village of the Year” for her steadfast commitment to better Atwater Village. Leonora is a dedicated community volunteer that invests her time, energy, and personal resources to help create a vibrant neighborhood. Leonora often helps organize or spearheads many beloved Atwater Village functions; such as the Tree Lighting Ceremony and Summer Nights on the Blvd.

On behalf of the entire Atwater Village community: Thank you Leonora, keep up the good work.

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The Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Annette Gutierrez and Mary Gray, from Pot-ted, for hosting our August 23rd Ice Cream Social / Business Mixer. We would also like to thank Lilly Labonge, from Sweet for the Soul, for those tasty ice cream sandwiches and Los Feliz Liquor for providing the libations.

The mixer was a great success and the evening was enjoyed by all who attended. We look forward to having our winter mixer in November, we’ll keep you posted.

SAVE THE DATE - Frogtown Artwalk 2011 - September 24 from 4-10 pm

2011-08-23T22:03:00.000-07:00

Join us September 24, 2011 for the 6th Frogtown Artwalk, a free, annual walking tour of the artist/artisan studios of Elysian Valley. The artwalk is organized by the Elysian Valley Arts Collective, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization.

www.frogtownarts.com

Check out our new blog: www.MadeInFrogtown.com for great information on the artists of Frogtown.

Please visit the website: www.evartscollective.com to join the Elysian Valley Arts Collective.

ATWATER VILLAGE CHAMBER AUGUST UPDATES

2011-08-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

An Award, Oh My!

The Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the first “Villager of the Year Award” August 23, 2011 – 7:00pm at the Ice Cream Social and Business Mixer (to take place at Potted). The creation of the award was inspired by the active civic involvement and generosity of so many in our community. It is the Chamber’s hope to give out this award to an outstanding citizen or shareholder every year to acknowledge their level of community and commitment to Atwater Village. So keep up the positivity and the level of involvement; the award could be yours next year. And like the Oscars the identity of this year’s recipient will be kept secret until the moment.

Yelp!

Yelp wants to do a pilot program with Atwater Village being the focus. Contact Thea Pueschel if you are interested in participating in such an event, it costs nothing and Yelp does all the promoting. By creating an interesting event you could have your business reach an audience 350,000. Thea will discuss this in greater detail at the Mixer 8/23. If this even comes to fruition Yelp would feature Atwater Village for 7-10 days showcasing participating locations in October.

Thea can be contacted at 323.835.3039 or at hypnotiqsolutions@gmail.com

Final Summer Nights

It’s been a beautiful summer and a wonderful year for Summer Nights on the Boulevard. We have gotten much press, and exposure via various blogs. Make sure to post your event or special for Summer Nights on the Boulevard on the official website. If you wish to be mentioned in the press release submit your info via website by noon Monday 8/21.

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For more information about the Chamber go to http://www.atwaterchamber.org/

FORUM ON L.A. CITY COUNCIL REDISTRICTING

2011-08-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

Northeast Los Angeles Coalition Hosts

Forum on L.A. City Council Redistricting

Thursday, August 25 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Glassell Park Senior/Community Center

3750 Verdugo Rd 90065

The redistricting of LA's City Council districts will have an enormous impact on the character of political representation in the Northeast region of Los Angeles. Be a part of the process!! Ordinary residents of L.A. can exert an effective and positive influence on the process and, in doing so; make City Hall more responsive to our neighborhoods' collective needs.

So, come and learn how to make a difference at this informational forum and then bring back your new skills to your respective communities.

ATWATER’S NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL APPROVES $500 SPONSORSHIP FOR NON-ATWATER EVENT

2011-08-11T23:08:00.000-07:00

At their August meeting the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council approved a $500 sponsorship, instead of the $3,000 sponsorship that was originally requested, for a non-Atwater event.

The event, Artcycle, will take place on September 17th at Santa Monica Blvd and Vermont Ave in the East Hollywood Community. Event Organizers describe Artcycle as “an event designed to showcase the emerging art and bicycling cultures in East Hollywood.”

For more information about Artcycle go to:

http://www.artcyclela.com/

RUMOR MILL: ATWATER VILLAGE FARM TO POSTPONE GRAND OPENING UNTIL NOVEMBER

2011-08-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

Atwater Village Farm (AVF) is rumored to have postponed their Grand Opening until mid or late November 2011. AVF was originally slated to open in mid October.

AVF was recently featured on The Eastsider LA.

Atwater urban farmer cultivates investors for new market [Eastsider LA]

ATWATER’S NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL TO VOTE ON $3,000 SPONSORSHIP FOR A NON-ATWATER EVENT

2011-08-08T22:48:00.000-07:00

The Atwater Village Neighborhood Council will vote on whether to approve a $3,000 sponsorship for an East Hollywood event at their upcoming board meeting.

The event, Artcycle, will take place on September 17^th at Santa Monica Blvd and Vermont Ave in the East Hollywood Community. Event Organizers describe Artcycle as “an event designed to showcase the emerging art and bicycling cultures in East Hollywood.”

It is unclear how Atwater Village would benefit by spending $3,000 to help sponsor an East Hollywood event.

Board Meeting

Atwater Village Neighborhood Council

Thursday, Aug 11th, 2011 - 7:00 PM

Christ's Church of Griffith Park

3852 Edenhurst Avenue

Click here for full meeting agenda

TAKE DOWN THOSE DAMN SIGNS!

2011-08-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

Yard Sales are a time-honored tradition in our village; most welcome them and some just accept them as a part village life. Yard Sales signs posted at strategic locations are also something to expect, after all how would one know where to find that slightly used toaster for just $1.00.

What is totally not ok, what is not welcomed are those damn abandoned yard sales signs that blight our village afterwards.

So if you insist on having a yard sale have the common decency to cleanup after yourself and remove those signs!

You know who you are… but more importantly we know who you are.

RUMOR MILL: TWO ATWATER VILLAGE CANDIDATES ARE EXPECTED TO RUN FOR CITY COUNCIL IN 2013

2011-08-02T16:22:00.000-07:00

Two local “villagers” are rumored to be quietly organizing to run as City Council candidates for the 13th District in 2013. Both soon-to-be candidates are Atwater Village residents and are active in community affairs.

Council District 13th current office holder, Eric Garcetti, will be is termed out of office in 2013.

Another rumored 13th Council District candidate includes Jose Sigala from Echo Park.

“ATWATER VILLAGE”: A PHOTOGRAPHIC BOOK ABOUT ATWATER VILLAGE HISTORY NOW AVAILABLE

2011-08-02T13:20:00.000-07:00

“Atwater Village” books are now available with the following Atwater Village merchants:

Alias Books East – 3163 Glendale Blvd

Luis Lopez Automotive – 2751 Fletcher Dr

Pot-ted – 3158 Los Feliz Blvd

Speed Co Fax & Pack – 3371 Glendale Blvd

Vince’s Market – 3250 Silver Lake Blvd

The book will take you from the days of the Santa Eulalia Rancho down to the Los Angeles River, over its bridges and on a trolley past the homes of Atwater Village families as they work, play, and shop. It also includes our wonderful equestrian community as well as a look at creative locals.

The book will also be available at the following book signing events:

AUGUST 25: Hosted by Alias Books – 3163 Glendale Blvd, during “Summer Nights on the Blvd” (5pm – 10pm)

SEPTEMBER 15: Hosted by Pot-ted – 3158 Los Feliz Blvd (6pm – 9pm)

SEPTEMBER 27: History Presentation, fundraiser & book signing at Atwater Village Branch Library – 3379 Glendale Blvd (4:30pm – 7:30pm)

For more information contact us at 323.913.2999 or favboard@friendsofatwatervillage.org

RUMOR MILL: MARIJUANA TO SUSHI, NEW SUSHI RESTAURANT MOVING IN THE FORMER POT SCHOOL?

2011-07-18T15:36:00.000-07:00

A new Sushi / Japanese fusion restaurant is rumored to be opening at the former site of Oaksterdam University, the marijuana dispensary school which was located at 3351 Glendale Blvd.

The property is owned and leased by Leona Gardner. Both Leona and Oaksterdam were recently featured in a L.A. Weekly News article.

L.A. Building and Safety vs. Oaksterdam U. [L.A. Weekly News]

Atwater Village Movie Night, TONIGHT: Back to the Future!

2011-07-15T12:24:00.001-07:00

FREE ATWATER VILLAGE CRAFT BEER, HALLELUJAH BROTHER!

2011-07-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

Northland Village Church reports…

For centuries, monasteries served as bastions of civility, preserving learning and extending charity to those around them. In this context a rich tradition of beer making developed, one that provided for the poor and evidenced a belief in a God who desires to see life and creativity flourish. Sadly, this sacred craft has all but disappeared from the Church today.

For this reason Northland Village Church has chosen to embrace this art, because we also are a people who care about community, hospitality, and creativity. This beer is the fruit of our labor. We hope enjoying it will spark good conversation and deep reflection on the beauty of this life.

NVC has bottled our first batch of beer, connecting with the historic tradition of the church being the place that makes the best brew. Our beer, “The Reconciler”, will be released on July 18 at 55 Degree wine in Atwater Village at 7pm.

A FREE GLASS OF OUR BEER will be given to all who attend (over 21)! That’s right, a free glass of our craftsmen double Belgium, laced with a hint of IPA will be given to celebrate the occasion. Also, non-alcoholic root beer will also be given away at the event for those who don’t drink alcohol. See you on July 18!!!

Click here for more information

A PHOTOGRAPHIC PEEK AT THE HISTORY OF ATWATER VILLAGE; FUNDRAISER / BOOK SIGNING EVENTS

2011-07-10T16:09:00.000-07:00

Friends of Atwater Village (FAV), along with Arcadia Publishing, is proud to announce the publication of “Images of America Atwater Village.”

FUNDRAISER/BOOK SIGNING EVENTS:

AUGUST 25: Hosted by Alias Books – 3163 Glendale Blvd, during “Summer Nights on the Blvd” (5pm – 10pm)

SEPTEMBER 15: Hosted by Pot-ted – 3158 Los Feliz Blvd (6pm – 9pm)

SEPTEMBER 27: History Presentation, fundraiser & book signing at Atwater Village Branch Library – 3379 Glendale Blvd (4:30pm – 7:30pm)

If you are unable to attend these events, books will be available with the following Atwater Village merchants:

Alias Books East – 3163 Glendale Blvd

Luis Lopez Automotive – 2751 Fletcher Dr

Pot-ted – 3158 Los Feliz Blvd

Speed Co Fax & Pack – 3371 Glendale Blvd

Vince’s Market – 3250 Silver Lake Blvd

The book is also available by mail order for a donation of $21.99 per book plus $5 (up to five books) shipping & handling. Click here to download order from (pdf file).

You can also contact us at:

Tel: 323.913.2999

Email: favboard@friendsofatwatervillage.org

ATWATER VILLAGE COYOTE SIGHTINGS, PET OWNERS BEWARE

2011-06-28T22:30:00.000-07:00

Local animal advocate Jeanmarie Wisniewski reports:

"There has been several coyote sightings and also a few missing kitties as well. A woman up the street from me on Edenhurst (Central Atwater Village) saw her cat taken by a coyote. I also have an outside kitty for several years and she has been missing for a few days. So, please, keep your small dogs and kitties inside in the evenings, even if you keep your dog locked in a back yard, they can still find a way in if your yard fencing is not fully secured."

STREET REPAVING COMMENCES ON FLETCHER DR, EXPECT TRAFFIC DELAYS

2011-06-27T09:35:00.000-07:00

Fletcher Dr resurfacing project starts today and will continue for two weeks. The project will resurface Fletcher Dr between I-5 Freeway and Casitas Ave, in Atwater Village. Expect traffic delays.

SUMMER NIGHTS ON THE BOULEVARD – Thursday, June 30th!

2011-06-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

The Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce is very excited to partake in this year’s “Summer Nights on the Boulevard”. This year’s event will be held on Thursday - June 30^th, July 28^th and August 25^th; and as in years past our “main street” business district (Glendale Blvd) will come alive with art, music and summer fun.

- Art -

“Art on the Boulevard”: an art showcase and competition hosted by Santosha Space and Hypnotiq Solutions (3405 Glendale Blvd).

Nightlong dance performances by Heartbeat House (Kumbi) at the Madera Ave / Kaldi Coffee House bump out (3147 Glendale Blvd).

- Music -

Music at Revo Café, four scheduled bands playing from 6:30pm to 10:00pm (3134 Glendale Blvd)

- Summer Fun –

Family fun-time: face painting, playtime and games from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at NILA: Nature Inspired Learning through Art (3010 Glendale Blvd).

Ice cream social at Hugo’s Tacos

Food trucks at 55 Degree Wine (3111 Glendale Blvd) and other locations along Glendale Blvd

Knitting machine demos by Kerry Regan, all night, at The Little Knittery (3195 Glendale Blvd)

Atwater Village Farm Open House (3224 Glendale Blvd)

For information on last minute additions to “Summer Nights on the Boulevard” go to www.summernightsontheboulevard.com

NORTH ATWATER VILLAGE NON-PROFIT NEEDS VOLUNTEERS!

2011-06-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

TAKING THE REINS inspires underserved girls facing the challenges of adolescence in high risk environments. Our teens develop self-esteem, teamwork, responsibility and leadership skills through learning to ride and care for horses.

Taking the Reins is located on a unique site: a working farm in the middle of Los Angeles that is used for all of our programs. The TAKING THE REINS URBAN FARM immerses students into the natural world where they can interact in unprecedented ways with animals and the environment.

Volunteer Opportunities

Riding Program Volunteer: Assist our instructors in overseeing the teens during the Riding and Horse Care Program.

Garden Volunteer: Assist our instructors with the organic garden class or help with garden maintenance including watering and assisting with the care of our chickens.

Barn & Grounds Volunteer: Our 100-year-old barn is always in need of a little TLC, whether it’s painting the stalls, cleaning up the grounds or doing chores.

Interested in volunteering? Contact: Cynthia@takingthereins.org

Taking the Reins

3919 ½ Rigali Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90039

323-906-1560

http://www.takingthereins.org/

ART CALL FOR ATWATER’S “ART ON THE BOULEVARD” EVENT

2011-06-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

Date: June 30th, July 28th and August 25th

Event Name: Art on the Boulevard
Time: 6-10:00pm
Location Name: Santosha Space
Address: 3405 Glendale Blvd, LA, CA 90039
Age: All Ages
Cost: Free to Community.
Competition Fee: $25 for those who wish to participate in the July and August art competitions.
RSVP: Not Necessary
Art Submissions: Requirements available on website.
Event URL: http://www.artontheblvd.com/
Event E-Mali: artontheblvd@gmail.com

About

Art on the Boulevard is a celebration of the creativity of life. Art is a healing communicative form of self-expression and exploration. It tells stories through various mediums. Art on the Boulevard will be showcasing local artists during Summer Nights on the Boulevard (Atwater Village) as well as works created in the Hypnotiq Solutions HypnoArt Workshops. June 30th marks the first night of celebration with refreshments and local artists’ work. July 28th and August 25th are celebrations of creativity, culminating in friendly, hosted competitions. Each of the above nights brings new works to the community and winning artists will be rewarded with gifts of healing arts, wine tastings and more.

Opening Night and Reception June 30th 6-10pm

Celebrating Local Artists and HypnoArt Workshop Pieces

First Competition and Showcase July 28th 6-10pm

Competition and Showcase - Prizes Awarded

For consideration in competition work must be submitted via e-mail by July 20th.

Second Competition and Showcase August 25th 6-10pm

Competition and Showcase - Prizes Awarded

For consideration in competition work must be submitted via e-mail by August 17th.

ATWATER’S NEW CRAFT BREWERY CHRISTENED “GOLDEN ROAD BREWING”

2011-06-19T01:42:00.000-07:00

Atwater Village’s new craft brewery to be called “Golden Road Brewing”. The new brewery scheduled to begin operations in September / October 2011. Golden Road Brewing is located at 5410 San Fernando Rd. West in Atwater’s northern industrial area, just a few parcels down from the Doran St train crossing. The brewery will encompass a 41,000 square foot faculty, which will also feature a 4475 square foot fashionable restaurant with beer tasting.

More information:

Golden Road Brewing Coming to Los Angeles from Tony Yanow, Meg Gill and Jon Carpenter [Drink Eat Travel]

Atwater Village to get its own craft brewery [Atwater Village Chamber]

RUMOR MILL: ATWATER VILLAGE GOURMET FOOD MARKET?

2011-06-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

A gourmet food market is rumored to be moving in at the former site of Jubilee Adult Day Care, 3155 Glendale Blvd. Eyewitnesses report that the site is currently undergoing renovation and that gourmet food products, such as Dean and Deluca, have already been delivered.

---

Update - 06/19/2011: Rumor confirmed! The new gourmet food market, Bon Vivant Market & Cafe, is scheduled to open this Fall 2011.

HGTV’S HIT RENOVATION SHOW “PROFESSIONAL GRADE” IS SEARCHING FOR SAVVY HOMEOWNERS IN ATWATER VILLAGE

2011-06-16T16:40:00.000-07:00

HGTV’s hit renovation show “PROFESSIONAL GRADE” is searching for savvy homeowners in Atwater Village who think they can renovate a room cheaper and better than a Contractor this Spring/Summer. In the show, homeowners are challenged by our host Matt Blashaw for a chance to win BIG CASH! It's a throw down!

The goal for homeowners is to source high–end materials on the cheap, take on the bulk of the labor themselves and manage their subcontractors to get the best quality work at below market prices. When the renovation is done, our experts price out the job based on the quality. If their estimate is higher than what our homeowners spent, the homeowners pocket the cash difference. Our BIGGEST winner took home $40,000.

Auditions are happening NOW. For an Application candidates should email:

http://www.highnoontv.com/casting_apply_new.php?application_id=3

All Applications will be considered and responded to via email or phone call.

For more information about HGTV’s, “Professional Grade,” visit:

http://www.hgtv.com/professional-grade/show/index.html

ATWATER VILLAGE’S NEW MARIJUANA SHOP BOASTS A “POT VENDING MACHINE”

2011-06-16T13:02:00.000-07:00

Marijuana vending machine at Glendale
Medical Center (3229 1/2 Glendale Blvd)

Atwater’s newly confirmed medical marijuana dispensary, Glendale Medical Center, boasts a “pot vending machine” according to online reviews one Weedmaps.com.

A Weedmaps reviewer comments:

“I was driving down from the Valley when I checked out Weedmaps to see what was closest to me. I [came] across another one of those marijuana vending machines and since the ones I've been to were decent I decided to give this one a try.

Its located next to a casket sales [place], which is not so bad if you enjoy any opportunity for an artistic metaphor =p Parking is easy but you have to pay the meter, but it takes credit cards which is nice and its not expensive, like a quarter for 20 min or something like that. The place is easy to get to, just make sure to ring the bell on the outside.

The place nice, pretty simple, but looks very clean and the budtender is super nice and really knows his stuff. The meds are weighed heavy and look very danky. I personally tried the Skywalker Bubba and wow!!!! Two of my fave strains together, which is pretty rad, and on top of that its at minimal cost, which I was happy about.

I've always been afraid of one day man vs. machine, but it saves me money, sweet! I can learn to love machines and day trust them =p Thanks for the new hope magical marijuana machine!!”

The new marijuana dispensary is located at Atwater’s old “Library Building” at 3229 ½ Glendale Blvd. The historic old “Library Building” had originally housed Atwater’s public library for 36 years from 1953 to 1989. The building is currently owned by Amesbury Partners LLC, a partnership co-owned by Jeff and Leona Gardner.

Glendale Medical Center

3229 1/2 Glendale Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Tel: 323-522-6632
Email: glendalemedcenter@gmail.com
Hours of Operation 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

ATWATER VILLAGE CASTING PRODUCER LOOKING TO CAST FOR OPRAH WINFREY NETWORK SHOW "IT TAKES A VILLAGE"

2011-06-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

– Oprah Winfrey Network –
NOW CASTING FAMILIES:

The company that brings you Undercover Boss is making a new family show!

This show is positive, uplifting and will offer solutions.

Raising teens is a challenge for every parent –

we’re seeking families with teens

who are at the end of their rope with their kids’ behavior:

• Does your teen break all your rules?
• Is your teen acting out, talking back, failing school?
• Smoking, drinking, experimenting with drugs?
• Ditching, sneaking out, hanging out with the wrong crowd?
• Is your child a victim of peer pressure or bullying?
• Have you tried everything, but nothing is working?

Requirements:

• Families must have at least two children who live at home
• At least one child must be a teenager

To Apply:

Please email us NOW:

• Your name, email AND phone number
• Names and ages of everyone living in household
• City where you live, and type of home (house, condo, apartment)
• Brief description of problems with each child
• 1-2 current family photos

Put your LAST NAME and CITY in the subject line – email
FamilyShowInfo@Gmail.com

FRIENDS OF ATWATER VILLAGE AND THE ATWATER VILLAGE CHAMBER TEAM UP TO MAKE OUR VILLAGE “SPARKLE & SHINE”

2011-06-13T15:39:00.000-07:00

Atwater Village community groups awarded beautification grants through L.A. City Council President Eric Garcetti’s “Clean & Connected Communities” initiative

Atwater Village, CA – Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti initiated a community beautification grant program for communities within Council District 13, which includes Atwater Village. The grant initiative, titled “Clean and Connected Communities,” has the vision of beautifying and improving neighborhoods while encouraging community collaboration.

As part of a team effort the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce and Friends of Atwater Village (FAV) was awarded a $2,500 grant for their “Make ‘em Sparkle Make ‘em Shine” beautification project. This joint project will focus on sprucing up the commercial corridors of Glendale Blvd and Fletcher Dr. “Make ‘em Sparkle Make ‘em Shine” will entail steam cleaning, repairing and painting of the historic tile trash receptacles; as well as repainting and replanting the plant containers all along Glendale Blvd. Fletcher Dr will get its graffiti abatement murals cleaned and touched up – including a fresh application of anti-graffiti coating. The river rock parkway at the corner of Larga Ave and Fletcher Dr will also get weeded and cleaned. This spruce up will take place in conjunction with a neighborhood wide cleanup scheduled for the fall.

The Atwater Village Neighborhood Council was also awarded a separate grant and will be working on improving and beautifying the landscaping of the median down Glendale Blvd.

—

About the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce

Incorporated on March 20th, 1947 the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce is one of the oldest and most enduring community groups in Atwater Village. The Chamber is a 501 (c) 6 non-profit organization and for over 63 years we have been dedicated to promoting civic and economic wellbeing of our community. At heart the Chamber is a group of small business owners dedicated in creating a positive and successful business environment in Atwater Village.

For more information about the Chamber visit them online at: http://www.atwaterchamber.org/

About Friends of Atwater Village

Founded in 2000 Friends of Atwater Village is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization made up of all local volunteers, a group of friends, working to preserve the uniqueness of our village and improve those areas that need improvement. At heart FAV is a group “hands on” group of volunteers working to preserve and improve our neighborhood, from neighborhood cleanups to mural projects and more.

For more information about FAV visit them online at: http://www.friendsofatwatervillage.org/

Atwater Village Movie Night: Superman - June 17th!

2011-06-10T17:54:00.000-07:00

SANTOSHA SPACE GRANDING OPENING EVENT THIS SATURDAY

2011-06-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

NEW “GRAFFITI MURAL” ADORNS ATWATER’S PUBLIC ART LANDSCAPE

2011-06-08T11:03:00.000-07:00

Images depicting iconic Mexican artists
Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo

Atwater Village has a new addition to its’ public art landscape. A new untitled “graffiti mural” now adorns the rear wall of Samurai Automotive at 3105 Casitas Ave, just next to the “Trains Shaping History” mural.

Facing the railroad tracks the new mural offers Amtrak riders, as well as motorist driving westbound on Fletcher Dr, a view of images depicting iconic Mexican artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, as well as other more abstract images. (click here for images of the new mural)

The mural was painted by “SIK Crew”, an anonymous group of graffiti artists. (click here for images of other SIK Crew murals)

T-MOBILE SEEKS TO INSTALL 39-FOOT CELLPHONE TOWER ON ATWATER’S PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY AT THE CORNER OF ATWATER AVE AND GLENDALE BLVD

2011-06-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

T-Mobile has served notice of their intention to install a 38-foot cellphone tower on the public right-of-way, specifically on the public sidewalk on Atwater Ave directly adjacent to Hugo’s Taco (3300 Glendale Blvd).

The proposal seeks to replace an existing 29-foot streetlight with a 38-foot cellphone tower that would incorporate a new 29-foot streetlight with an additional 9-feet of cellphone antennas. In addition, T-Mobile seeks to place related equipment cabinets and a electrical meter pedestal on the public sidewalk southeast from the tower on Atwater Ave.

T-Mobile’s application is currently under review with the City of Los Angeles Bureau of Engineering. Those seeking to provide input on the application can direct comments to:

Re: City Reference # 2011001854 (adjacent to 3300 Glendale Blvd)

Jeff Ladou

City of Los Angeles

Bureau of Engineering – Central District: AGF Group

201 N. Figueroa St., Ste. 750

Los Angeles, CA 90012

Tel: 213-482-7467

Email: jeffrey.ladou@lacity.org

You may also want to CC Council President Eric Garcetti (CD13), along with Atwater’s CD13 Field Deputy

Email: councilmember.garcetti@lacity.org, arsen.melikyan@lacity.org

T-Moble Proposed Above Ground Cellphone Tower Notice (PDF file)

ATWATER VILLAGE GETS TWO NEW REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS

2011-06-01T13:21:00.000-07:00

Atwater Village’s convicted sex offender population increase by two this past year, according to the State’s sex offender registration website. Atwater’s two recent additions include a 46-year-old male convicted for “possession of obscene matter depicting a minor in sexual conduct” and a 48-year-old male convicted for “lewd acts with a child under 14 years of age”. It is not known if these two offenders were convicted while residing in Atwater Village or if they moved in after the fact.

With these two recent additions Atwater now has a total of 5 registered sex offenders. For more information visit California Megan’s Law website at: http://www.meganslaw.ca.gov/

MARTIAL ART CLASSES AT METRO FITNESS GYM IN ATWATER VILLAGE

2011-05-31T14:43:00.000-07:00

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO:

http://www.vipta.webs.com/

Summer Acting Classes for Kids and Teens!

2011-05-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

Summer Acting Classes for Kids and Teens!

May 21-June 25
Saturdays 10am-12pm
$180 for 6 weeks

Atwater Playhouse Method School of Acting
3191 Casitas Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90039

Students will focus on developing a solid acting technique, learning theatre/acting vocabulary and having fun using their imaginations. This course includes vocal warm-ups/stretching, focus exercises, group improv games, commercial work and scene work. Plus, there will be a performance of scenes at the end of the session!

To register, Please contact Nicole at 513.593.4132

Thank you,

Nicole Bailey
Acting Instructor/Director-Children's Program
Atwater Playhouse
3191 Casitas Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90039

ATWATER ART WALK - MAY 14TH!

2011-05-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, May 14th

MY Story YOUR Story OUR Story

This Saturday: 5 - 10 PM on Glendale Blvd. in Atwater Village

The evening will be filled with... local bands, stories, art, local food and drink, one another and much more!!!

For more information contact nick@northlandvillagechurch.com

Or visit http://www.atwaterartwalk.com/

NEW ATWATER VILLAGE BLOG PREMIERS: “ATWATER OUTSPOKEN”

2011-05-08T00:56:00.000-07:00

Atwater Village has a new community blog dubbed “Atwater Outspoken” (AO). The new blog debuted this past April 26^th. In its’ inaugural post AO states its desire “to start some interesting conversations about the march of progress in Atwater Village”.

AO seems to be the brainchild of Adam Hauck, an Atwater Village resident and a Writer/Producer/Director. Serving as producer of the award-winning PBS documentary “Homecoming” is among Adam’s noteworthy accomplishments in the “Industry”.

While AO is a new blog Adam has actively blogged on Atwater Village before on another site called “Pain Killer”. Atwater related posts on that site include his 2008 scathing critique on the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council: “Your Local Elected Officials”.

www.atwateroutspoken.com

“ATWATER VILLAGE” PHOTOGRAPHIC HISTORY BOOK FOR SALE IN AUGUST!

2011-05-07T18:56:00.000-07:00

Atwater Village celebrated its centennial in 2010. To help commemorate this important milestone Friends of Atwater Village (FAV) produced Atwater’s first photographic history book, as part of Arcadia Publishing for the Images of America series. The book will become available this August 1^st. Click here for more information.

From the book’s back-cover

In the shadow of Griffith Park along the Glendale Narrows section of the Los Angeles River sits Atwater Village, a charming slice of Los Angeles nestled amid Silver Lake, Los Feliz, and the city of Glendale. Atwater's beginnings date to 1868 when W. C. B. Richardson bought the 671-acre Santa Eulalia Rancho. Starting in 1904, the Pacific Electric Red Car offered a convenient commute to downtown Los Angeles, and the Art Tile Company (later Gladding McBean) and Van de Kamps Bakery became key local employers. Stylish homes and bungalows proliferated along the tree-lined streets, built in the Mediterranean, English Tudor, Spanish Colonial Revival, California Craftsman, and Fantasy architectural styles. A library, post office, schools, and churches sprang up along with more than 100 family-owned and corporate enterprises. Nearly 4 miles long and half a mile wide, Atwater evolved as a wholly contained community, prompting residents in 1987 to successfully petition the city to officially add the word Village to its name.

ATWATER’S “LA GRAN LIMPIEZA” AND THE MAYOR’S L.A. RIVER DAY OF SERVICE DEEMED A GRAND SUCCESS

2011-05-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

This April 30^th Atwater Village was abuzz with community spirit as local villagers and volunteers from around the city participated in a brilliant day of cleanup and beautification projects at, in and around the Los Angeles River.

Heartfelt congratulations to Friends of the Los Angeles River’s (FOLAR) and the Mayor’s Office for combining “La Gran Limpieza” and LA River Day of Service, it made for a winning combination.

FOLAR’s annual “La Gran Limpieza” event to haul tons of trash out of the river was a huge success here in Atwater Village. Friends of Atwater Village (FAV) sponsored Atwater’s cleanup site at the Sunnynook Bridge. We saw 200 + nature lovers swarm the banks and islands in the river hauling out items that included shopping carts, mattress springs, mattresses, hub caps, metal poles, bed frames and rags not to mention tons of plastic bottles and bags. It was a beautiful day to be on the river. Thank you to FOLAR and our volunteers for their hard work and dedication to our river.

Here in Atwater Village projects for the Mayor’s L.A. River Day of Service took place at two sites. At Sunnynook the path leading up to the river was regraded and new decomposed granite applied to make it safer. The path improvement was made possible through funding by the mayor’s office and the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council and the hard work of Ray Valentine of Maintaining Mother Earth. Also, the knoll area at the foot of the path was weeded, cleaned and replanted by volunteers from the Northland Village Church following the design plan of Kathy Oberg, the Fairy Yard Mother.

The second location was at Atwater Avenue Elementary School, just blocks from the river. At the main entrance of the school you will see new plantings, the design done by landscape architects and local residents Colin and Rebecca Rudolph, a mosaic tile design by Kacy Treadway along the steps as well as a mural by Rafael Escamilla that points “To the River”. Thank you to Atwater Ave School Principal Charles Smith for his continuous commitment to our school, its students and the community. Many parents and community volunteers worked to get these projects completed with funding through the mayor’s office and the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council.

Lastly, FAV would like to give special thanks and appreciation to Fabiola Vilchez (Central Area Director, Mayor’s Office) who kept the Atwater’s Day of Service Committee on track and focused going above and beyond with determination, enthusiasm and a smile.

Sincerely,

Friends of Atwater Village

www.friendsofatwatervillage.org

Click here for event photo gallery

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

2011-04-25T11:11:00.000-07:00

Atwater Avenue Elementary celebrates LA River Day with a mosaic project, a new mural honoring the LA River plus lush new landscaping across the school entrance

Students, Parents and Staff of Atwater Avenue Elementary School invite the local community to dig in with them to celebrate the LA River Day of Service on Saturday April 30, 2011, from 8am until 12noon. Volunteers will be planting over 100 indigenous plants as part of their new beautification landscaping project, designed by local landscape architects Rebecca and Colin Rudolph.

To be unveiled that morning also is a huge soaring mural for the school wall facing Perlita Avenue , designed by local iconic artist Rafael (whose work can also be seen at Vince’s Market).

Plus, a new mosaic project for the school entrance, designed by local community member Kacy Treadway, and made by the Atwater Avenue Elementary 6th Grade Students, will also receive its finishing touches.

“Our day of service is a perfect way to further unite our community and our school,” says Principal Mr. Charles D. Smith . “ Atwater has such an amazing legacy and history, which flows through our school (founded in 1922) much like this iconic river defines our neighborhood. Our school campus is so close to the river that we are inspired to honor it with these dedicated projects.”

JOIN US: Saturday April 30 8am-noon. Entrance of Atwater Avenue Elementary School . 3271 Silver Lake Blvd. , Los Angeles , CA 90039. For additional information and/or to RSVP, please call the school at (323) 665-5941.

Charles D. Smith

Principal

ATWATER AVENUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

3271 Silver Lake Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Office (323) 665-5941 Fax (323) 665-1535 Email cds9991@lausd.net

Website: http://atwater-lausd-ca.schoolloop.com/

A “JANE DOE” FOUND AT THE L.A. RIVER IN ATWATER VILLAGE, MORE INFORMATION SOUGHT

2011-04-22T13:58:00.000-07:00

An Atwater Village News reader reports:

“On April 15, 2011 located by the Fletcher Drive Bride on the island in the Los Angeles River a deceased body of a women was found by me and my boyfriend as we were walking our dog. She is an unknown and we were just wondering if you had any information who this women was or how we could find out it more about the sad situation. We just hope the best for her and her family, we put up some flowers and a cross and a candle for this unknown women.”

Please send any information to news@friendsofatwatervillage.org. We have contacted Atwater’s LAPD SLO for more information but are waiting for a reply.

THE ATWATER VILLAGE VOICE, AVNC NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2011

2011-04-21T22:55:00.000-07:00

Click here to download newsletter (PDF file)

For more information about the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council go to:www.atwatervillage.org

ATWATER VILLAGE TO GET ITS OWN CRAFT BREWERY!

2011-04-20T16:33:00.000-07:00

Atwater Village is a self-sustained community. We enjoy the use of our own post office, library, first-rate public and private schools, numerous religious institutions, theaters, an arts district and even an equestrian district. We also have a robust and diverse business community that serves our village, providing a wide range of goods, services and jobs. And now we can count on having our own craft brewery!

LA Brewing (Custom California Craft Beer, LLC) is moving forward with plans to convert an existing 41,000 square foot industrial site in North Atwater Village into a craft brewery which will also feature a 4475 square foot fashionable restaurant and beer tasting site. The brewery will be located in Atwater’s northern industrial area at 5430 N. San Fernando Road West, just a parcel down from Doran St.

On April 18th, representatives of LA Brewing made a presentation to the Board of Directors of the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce (AVCC). While the brewery is allowed to operate by right in the M2 zone a Conditional Use Permit is required for the restaurant and beer tasting aspect of the business. The AVCC Board of Directors unanimously approved a letter welcoming LA Brewing to our community and stating the Chamber’s full support of the Conditional Use Permit application for the restaurant and beer tasting site. Among the reasons cited to support LA Brewing included the approximately 100 manufacturing jobs the brewery is expected to provide to Atwater Village…. having our own locally lip-smacking brewed craft beer is just an added bonus.

RUMOR MILL: JUBILEE ADULT DAY CARE CENTER IN ATWATER VILLAGE TO CLOSE

2011-04-19T16:16:00.000-07:00

Jubilee Adult Day Care Center, located at 3155 Glendale Blvd, is rumored to be closing their business by the end of this month. The location is owned by Leona Gardner. Both Leona and Jubilee were recently featured in a L.A. Weekly News article.

L.A. Building and Safety vs. Oaksterdam U. [L.A. Weekly News]

RUMOR MILL: NEW MARIJUANA DISPENSARY TO OPEN AT ATWATER’S HISTORIC OLD “LIBRARY BUILDING”

2011-04-18T16:54:00.000-07:00

A building once dedicated to higher learning will now be dedicated to getting people “high”. A new medical marijuana dispensary is rumored to be opening at the old “Library Building” located at 3229 Glendale Blvd. The site currently houses two businesses: California Casket Company (3229 Glendale Blvd) and California Sun Systems (3229 ½ Glendale Blvd). The rumored medical marijuana dispensary is expected to take the place of California Sun Systems and occupy 3229 ½ Glendale Blvd.

The historic old “Library Building” had originally housed Atwater’s public library for 36 years from 1953 to 1989 until it relocated to a larger building at the corner of Glendale Blvd and Revere Ave. After the library was relocated the building housed a few “mom & pop” businesses over the years, including Thousand Fabrics. The building then stood empty for a few years and feel into disrepair. In 2009, it got a much needed facelift after many years of neglect. The building was purchased and subdivided in 2009 by Amesbury Partners LLC, a partnership co-owned by Jeff and Leona Gardner which currently owns and rents commercial space on the site.

FLETCHER DRIVE BRIDGE TO UNDERGO TWO YEAR SEISMIC RETROFIT

2011-04-18T12:33:00.000-07:00

The Fletcher Drive Bridge is currently undergoing a two year seismic retrofit, which started in early April. According to the construction crew and onsite signage, the retrofit project currently in construction is part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act Fletcher Drive resurfacing project, which will resurface Fletcher between I-5 Freeway and Casitas Ave.

However, very little is known about what the seismic retrofit project actual entails, the exact project timeline or what impact (if any) it will have on the community. Furthermore, absolutely no advance notice was given to area residents or business owners about either the bridge seismic retrofit or resurfacing project. And an effort to obtain more detailed information thru L.A. Council District 13 (CD13) has proven surprisingly difficult.

CD13’s Atwater Village field deputy, Angela Motta, has provided a limited “April Construction Activity Report” (click here to download report, PDF file) but has been unresponsive to requests for more detailed information.

Lions Club "Annual Atwater Village Pancake Breakfast"

2011-04-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

The Griffith Park Lions Club
"Annual Atwater Village Pancake Breakfast" and Silent Auction
Saturday, May 7th, 2011
Will be held at the Wells Fargo Bank parking lot
3250 Glendale Blvd., Starting at 7:30am

The Lions Club collects your old eyeglasses to be refurbished and given to those in need. They also collect pull tabs from all cans: soda, beer, pet food and many others. These help support the Ronald McDonald House for parents of children with major medical problems.

So bring these items with you to the breakfast, or keep this in mind for the Lion's next event.

TASTE OF THE EASTSIDE 2011

2011-04-17T15:27:00.000-07:00

Food | Wine | Beer | Music

Sunday, May 15, 2011 from 1 – 5 pm

Barnsdall Art Park, 4800 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90027

$25 General Admission | $65 VIP

$5 kids ages 2-12 | 2 & under FREE

For more information and tickets, please see www.tasteoftheeastside.com.

Rose Scharlin Cooperative is proud to present Taste of the Eastside 2011, an inaugural event uniting LA's Eastside communities through a lively afternoon of food, drinks, and music. Join us in the beautifully scenic hilltop garden at Barnsdall Art Park and sample the enticing flavors of local restaurants from neighborhoods around the Eastside including Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Eagle Rock, Echo Park, Atwater Village, Highland Park, and more.

We're pleased to welcome KCRW's Garth Trinidad as he delivers a unique fusion of world rhythm and beats. For VIP ticket holders mixologist Talmadge Lowe of Heirloom LA and Pharmacie will be setting up his mysterious roving cocktail experience.

A special thank you to Intelligentsia Coffee, Eagle Rock Brewery, and Silverlake Wine along with our city councilmen, Eric Garcetti (Council District 13) and Tom LaBonge (Council District 4).

Thanks also goes out to LA Weekly for their support and sponsorship for the event.

Participating restaurants include community favorites such as Elf Cafe, Cookbook, Local, Little Dom’s, Pazzo Gelato, Reservoir, Gingergrass, the James Beard award-winning Yuca's, the beloved Auntie Em's, Malo, Hugo's Tacos, and Madame Matisse just to name a few. Even more amazing venues are in the works, so check back to the website for updates!

Stay up-to-date with this Eastside food fête by following us on Twitter @tasteeastside or link to us on Facebook. You can also sign up for our mailing list at www.tasteoftheeastside.com.

Tickets go on sale beginning Saturday, April 2 at www.tasteoftheeastside.com and www.rosescharlin.com. All proceeds benefit the local organizations of SEE-LA, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Rose Scharlin, and Barnsdall Art Park Foundation.

For press or media inquiries, please contact Siuan McGahan at (818) 415-1756 or at info@tasteoftheeastside.com.

If you are a restaurant or vendor, or would like more information on how you can become an official sponsor, contact Tabitha at tabitha@tasteoftheeastside.com.

Los Angeles Communities Rally to Establish Eastside Food Culture

2011-04-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

BARNSDALL PARK (Los Angeles, CA) – Residents and parents from local LA neighborhoods are determined to revolutionize the Eastside foodie scene by organizing an all-star regional restaurant event called Taste of the Eastside, located atop the scenic hillside setting of Barnsdall Park.

This inaugural event will kick off thanks in large part to the concerted efforts of a small but determined group of passionate individuals who wanted something to call their own for the community; something they could build together from the ground up and be proud of. The end result? A provocative tasting event taking place on Sunday, May 15, where a diverse array of the Eastside's hidden culinary gems and its most well-loved restaurants will come together from areas like Eagle Rock, Highland Park, Silverlake, Atwater, and more to showcase their flavors and tantalize palates. Already, award-winning restaurants have eagerly signed on, including Yuca's (James Beard award), Malo's of Silverlake, famous for popularizing Spanish tapas in LA and most recently known for having the world's only certified organic tequila, Eagle Rock's beloved Auntie Em's, and Forage known for its delicious, sustainable fare, among many others.

“There just isn't anything else like it for LA's Eastside,” says Siuan McGahan, founder and fundraising chair of the event. “Spectacular views, amazing food and music, and the best of LA's Eastside restaurants being brought together to introduce people to fantastic dishes from their very own neighborhoods. What else could you want on a beautiful Sunday afternoon?”

What's more, this event benefits important organizations such as SEE-LA – which seeks to improve the city through endeavors like the wonderful Hollywood Farmers' Market – the Children's Hospital of LA, Barnsdall Art Park, and Rose Scharlin Co-op Nursery. “We want this to be bigger than ourselves,” McGahan continues. “It's really more of an effort to bring the community together through a celebration of food as well as give back to it.” And they're succeeding in doing just that. Their tireless initiatives have even caught the attention of city councilmen, Eric Garcetti and Tom LaBonge, both of whom believe in the event so much that they have each signed on as official co-sponsors, along with the treasured local institutions Eagle Rock Brewery, Intelligentsia Coffee, and Silverlake Wine, all of which are proudly lending their support as well.

“This will hopefully be the first year of many to come,” McGahan says with an excited smile, and with a day that's been in diligent cultivation since last year, the granting of that wish may not be too far away.

---

Siuan McGahan

(818) 415-1756

info@tasteoftheeastside.com

THE GRAN LIMPIEZA IN ATWATER VILLAGE - SUNNYNOOK SITE

2011-04-17T12:30:00.000-07:00

La Gran Limpieza - L.A. River, Atwater Village - Sunnynook Footbridge site

Saturday, April 30th, 20111

9:00pm to Noon

At the Sunnynook Bridge (Sunnynook Dr & Legion Ln), Central Atwater Village

Join Friends of Atwater Village (FAV) and Gran Limpieza volunteers to clean up Atwater’s section of the Los Angeles River. Bring work gloves and lots of energy!

Click here for more information

“ATWATER ART WALK” NOW TAKING ART

2011-04-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

The organizers of “Atwater Art Walk” are seeking art submissions for the upcoming Atwater Art Walk event slated for May 14^th, 2011. Submit your art here...

http://www.atwaterartwalk.com/submit-your-art/

And remember that there is a 1000.00 grand prize and a host of prizes for elementary school students.

---

About Atwater Art Walk

We all have a story. Every one of us. We live in a city of stories. Over 12 million of them. In this year’s first annual Atwater Village Art Walk, we hope for two things. Firstly, we hope to create a space that celebrates our different stories through the art of our eclectic backgrounds. Secondly, it is our deeper hope that the Art Walk doesn’t end with the simple sharing of stories. We hope that through our art we develop new relationships with people different than ourselves. This is where my story and your story intersect to create our story. Please join us as co-authors in making our story in Los Angeles more meaningful.

Please submit the art by May 10th and join us on May 14th from 5-10PM.

For more information contact Nick Warnes at nick@northlandvillagechurch.com

Or go to www.atwaterartwalk.com

Happy Earth Day 2011

2011-04-15T09:34:00.001-07:00

Happy Earth Day 2011, originally uploaded by Luis Lopez.

THINK GREEN!

ATWATER VILLAGE CROSSING (ATX) SEEKS SEVERAL LAND USE VARIANCES TO EXPAND ITS OPERATIONS ON CASITAS AVE

2011-04-12T21:38:00.000-07:00

Atwater Village Crossing (ATX), dba West Casitas LCC, is seeking various land use variances to allow for a public restaurant and theater uses otherwise not permitted on a light manufacturing zoned (MR1-1) property. The property in question is located at 3229-3269 Casitas Ave in South Atwater Village.

ATX is specifically seeking a variance to allow for:

23 shared parking spaces between daytime uses of the ATX complex and evening parking for the restaurant theater performances. 113 parking spaces would normally be required but only 90 parking spaces will be provided.
The sale of beer and wine for on-site consumption in conjunction with a public restaurant occupying 7,940 SF with 231 seats and live entertainment operation 24 hours daily.
Permit the sale of beer and wine for on-site consumption in the lobby areas of the proposed theater occupying 9,987 SF with 179 seats.
And the adoption of a “Mitigated Negative Declaration” (MND) for the entire project.

Atwater Village stakeholders seeking to provide input directly to the L.A Department of City Planning should attend a public hearing scheduled for May 4, 2011.

Public Hearing, Case No: ZA 2011-0300 (CUB)(ZV)(ZAD)

Wednesday, May 4^th, 2011 – 10:00am

Los Angeles City Hall

200 North Spring Street, Room 1020

Los Angeles, CA 90012

Input can also be provided in writing. Send written communications to the Los Angeles City Planning Department, Expedited Processing Section, 200 North Spring Street, Room 721, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Please include case no: ZA 2011-0300 (CUB)(ZV)(ZAD) in any communication as reference.

For more information call Jae Kim at 213.978.1383

Click here to download Public Hearing Notice (PDF file)

The Atwater Village Neighborhood Coucil already approved a “letter of support” from the for ATX land use variance request at their March 10th Board Meeting.

A MESSAGE FROM THE ATWATER VILLAGE CHAMBER PRESIDENT

2011-04-05T16:27:00.000-07:00

Greetings Atwater Village,

This past March the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 64th anniversary. The Chamber was found in 1947 by a group of civic-minded small business folks with simple mission to “promote the civic, economic and social welfare of the people of the Atwater community”. Our founding members included tailors, grocers, sales clerks, accountants, mechanics, insurance agents, plumbers, bankers, barkeeps and even furniture salesmen by the name of George Seeley. Today, the Chamber continues its small business tradition with the election of our new Board of Directors.

I am thankful to my fellow Board Members to have been selected for third term as Chamber President. As owner and founder of 55 Degree Wine I look forward to another term of promoting Atwater Village as a “thee place” in Northeast Los Angeles to live, shop and play. I am also thankful for the continued support of Patricia Aleman (State Farm Insurance) our Treasurer and Luis Lopez (Luis Lopez Automotive) our Secretary. Both Patricia and Luis work tirelessly to keep the managerial aspect of the Chamber running.

In addition, the Chamber is very excited to welcome Alex Ventura and Thea Pueschel to the Board of Directors. Alex Ventura, our new Vice President, owns and operates a residential masonry and concrete instillation company (Ventura & Son Masonry). Alex is also an Atwater Village resident and serves on Atwater Village Neighborhood Council as both the North Atwater Representative and Chair of the Land Use Committee. As for Thea Pueschel, our new Director of Mixers & Special Events, she is the owner of a private hypnotherapy practice on Los Feliz Blvd (Hypnotiq Solutions). Thea has worked with various Atwater Village businesses in the past to create cross promotions, as well as helped raise funds through organizing and facilitating holistic events that benefit non-profits in the Atwater Village Area. Thea is also an active member of the Atwater Village Tree Lighting Committee and was a generous sponsor of Tree Lighting Ceremony for 2010.

For more information about the new Board of Directors go to:

http://atwaterchamber.org/blog/board-of-directors/

2011 promises to be another exciting and fun-filled year for the Chamber. We look forward to bring back popular community events such as “Summer Nights on the Blvd” and the 20th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, in collaboration with other community groups.

On the business front, the Chamber is expanding our ongoing “Shop Atwater Village First” campaign. A campaign dedicated in promoting our members to Atwater Village consumers and encouraging them to patronize local businesses. We will also be working to create a dialog between businesses, and aid in the creation of a support network among local businesses thru our quarterly mixers.

As for the civic front, the Chamber will continue be an advocate on wide range of issues on behalf of the Atwater Village community. We will also be conducting nonpartisan voter registration and “get-out-the-vote” drives to increase Atwater’s voting profile for the upcoming 2012 elections.

Sincerely,

Andy Hasroun President

Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce

Creating a positive and successful business environment in Atwater Village

http://www.atwaterchamber.org/

P.O. Box 39754

Los Angeles, CA 90039

(323) 251-5967

andy@55degreewine.com